New York Auto Show 2012: BMW 3 Series Goes Electric, As Classics Get Amped With New Designs And Apple Integration [PHOTOS]

The 2012 NY International Auto Show might feature a dizzying array of dazzling cars from around the world, but one little German automaker had all eyes steadily glued. BMW announced its new M5 and M6 models as well as the BMW X1 and the 6 Series Gran Coupe models. All new models stick to the quintessential BMW values - outstanding performance, exceptional efficiency and stunning design.

The M5 continues to push the envelope, even in its fifth generation, while the M6 shows its M pedigree going zero to 60 in 4.5 seconds. The 2013 BMW X1 will hit the U.S. in Fall 2012 with its state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements as a next-generation sports sedan vehicle. The 6 Series Gran Coupe combines the proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with room and interior amenities for five passengers.

BMW also unveiled its electrifying concept models from the BMW i Series -- the i3 Concept Car and the i8 Concept Car -- at the 2012 NY Auto Show. The i3 is the first Series-produced all-electric car and is crafted for those living in urban areas. The i8 brings together a combustion engine and an electric-driving system. The BMW i3 Series will be available in 2013 and the i8 will follow shortly thereafter.

NYIAS BMW i8 Concept Car; Photo Credit: Eli Cabanas

BMW just completed its most successful year in the company's history.

With over 400,000 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold worldwide, we have had an outstanding first quarter and the best ever in the company's history, said Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing BMW, from the 2012 NY Auto Show at the Javits Center on Wednesday.

We have seen over 16 percent growth in the U.S. this quarter and we expect further momentum with the new BMW 3 Series Sedan on the market, as well as the introduction of the BMW X1 to the U.S. in September this year.

With the success of 2011 behind it, BMW looks forward to an exciting 2012.

We are always looking ahead and have picked up the pace for 2012, Robertson said. We truly believe in and understand the needs and desires of our customers.

One key aspect of BMW's plans for 2012 includes Apple-product integration capabilities. This technological advancement is just one component in BMW's strategic business plan of progressive thinking and success.

Collaboration with Apple makes perfect sense, considering Apple's innovative clout. Apple could hit the $1 trillion market cap soon, with some analysts predicting the stock price will reach $1000 in calendar year 2014. On Wednesday morning, CNN's financial reporter Christine Romans underscored the strength of the market. Everyone is buying Apple products and cars, things they need to make life easier and better, she said.

In October 2011, BMW announced its BMW apps platform to support the safe use of smartphone applications within BMW vehicles. At the 2012 SXSW festival, BMW Senior Engineer Robert Passaro introduced the Stitcher app integration. The Stitcher app's on-demand streaming functionality led to its being dubbed the Top 5 News Apps of 2011 by Apple.

On March 31, BMW introduced its next level of automotive consumer electronic device integration with Apple's iPod Out functionality. The Apple iPod Out feature allows for the use and control of Apple applications with the iDrive interface.

Customers demand the utmost of their products, said Passaro, whether it be a very high-performance machine or an iPhone with the latest innovations. And this feature enables those two qualities to be merged into one. This was a noteworthy transfer of technological and software revolutions to revamp the motor vehicle. BMW is at the helm of this progress.